| Apr 2007 | ||
| MLA Legislature Report Alana DeLong, MLA Spring Session at the Legislature began March 7th and promises to be both exciting and challenging as we look at innovative ways to make Government work for all of us. Your views are important and I encourage you to continue to let me know your thoughts. Alberta Works Implements Debit Card Program Province Wide: Beginning Summer 2007, Albertans who receive income support through Alberta Works and who do not have bank accounts will have the option to receive their benefits with a debit card. The program is the first of its kind. The debit card program will take approximately six months to implement from start to finish. Grants Support Albertans In Achieving A Better Quality Of Life: Thirteen Alberta organizations have received over $300,000 in funding for projects that help develop skills and knowledge related to diversity and human rights. The projects range from creating educational campaigns to setting up community networks. The grants, provided through the Human Rights, Citizenship and Multiculturalism Education Fund, help organizations make changes in their communities that help foster equality, promote fairness and encourage the inclusion of all Albertans in the economic, social and cultural life of the province. The $1.7 million Education Fund receives an annual allotment from the Alberta Lottery Fund to promote equality and reduce discrimination in Alberta. Grant applications are accepted until May 1 for projects that begin the following August, or later and until October 1 for projects that begin the following January, or later. The applications are reviewed by an advisory committee. Additional information about the Education Fund is available on the Alberta Tourism, Parks, Recreation and Culture website at www.cd.gov.ab.ca/educationfund or contact a grant consultant at (403) 297-8407 (to call toll free within Alberta, dial 310-0000). Expert Panel To Examine Alberta's Royalty Regime : The Government of Alberta has assembled an independent panel of experts to examine the province's royalty and tax regime. The panel aims to ensure Albertans are receiving a fair share from energy development through royalties, taxes and fees. The review will focus on all aspects of the royalty system, including oilsands, conventional oil and gas and coal bed methane. Beginning April, the panel will host a series of public meetings in Calgary, Edmonton, Fort McMurray and Grande Prairie. Final recommendations will be presented to the Minister of Finance by August 31, 2007. Submissions can also be made by faxing (403) 297-5238, e-mailing royaltyreview@gov.ab.ca, or mailing to Royalty Review Secretariat, 1100, 715 - 5th Ave SW, Calgary, AB, T2P 2X6. All submissions will be considered public information. Happy Easter Public Consultations Please visit http://www.gov.ab.ca/home/Index.cfm?Page=625
and provide your input to matters that affect Albertans.
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